Do I need a visa to visit Durrës?

Citizens of EU countries, US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many others can enter Albania visa-free for up to 90 days. Check Albania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs for specific requirements.

Is Durrës expensive for tourists?

Durrës is very affordable compared to Western Europe. Budget travelers can manage on €30-40/day, while mid-range travelers spend €50-80/day including accommodation, meals, and activities.

Can I use euros in Durrës?

The official currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL). Some tourist businesses may accept euros, but you'll get better value using local currency. ATMs are widely available.

How far is Durrës from Tirana?

Durrës is approximately 35 km west of Tirana, about 30-45 minutes by car or bus. Frequent furgons and buses connect the two cities throughout the day.

What are the must-see attractions in Durrës?

Top sights include the Roman Amphitheatre, Durrës Archaeological Museum, Byzantine City Walls, Venetian Tower, Royal Villa of Durrës, and the beautiful beaches along the coastline.

Varies by nationality. Many countries get visa-free entry for up to 90 days. Check with Albanian embassy.

What currency is used?

Albanian Lek (ALL). Euros are sometimes accepted but not recommended.

Is English widely spoken?

In tourist areas, younger people speak English. Elsewhere, Italian or Greek may help.

Can I use credit cards?

Major hotels and restaurants accept cards, but cash is king in smaller shops and markets.

Is the tap water safe?

Not recommended. Bottled water is cheap and widely available.

What is the local cuisine like?

Fresh seafood, grilled meats, byrek (savory pie), and fërgesë (pepper and cheese dish). Try raki (local spirit).

Are there beaches in Durrës?

Yes, long sandy beaches with public and private sections. Water sports and beach bars are common.

How do I get from Tirana Airport to Durrës?

Take a taxi (30-40 min, ~€25-30) or a bus to Tirana then a furgon to Durrës.

Is Durrës safe for solo female travelers?

Generally safe, but take usual precautions. Avoid dark streets at night.

What souvenirs should I buy?

Local olive oil, raki, handmade lace, and traditional Albanian wool socks.

Can I visit Durrës in winter?

Yes, but many beach bars and hotels close. The city is quieter and cheaper.

Are there hiking opportunities?

Nearby hills and the Dajti Mountain offer trails. The coast is flat for walking.

Durrës

ProvinceAlbania, Europe

Durrës is a STATE in Albania, Europe.

Durrës, Albania's vibrant coastal province, is where ancient history meets Mediterranean leisure. As one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities, Durrës boasts the magnificent Roman Amphitheatre—the largest in the Balkans—and the fascinating Archaeological Museum showcasing Illyrian, Greek, and Roman artifacts. The province's crown jewel is its stunning 58-kilometer coastline along the Adriatic Sea, featuring golden beaches like Plazhi i Gjeneralit and Durrës Beach, where locals and visitors mingle in lively waterfront promenades. Beyond the coast, the rolling hills offer vineyards producing renowned Albanian wines and olive groves yielding exceptional olive oil. Durrës serves as Albania's main port and a gateway to the country, blending bustling urban energy with traditional fishing villages. The vibrant culinary scene features fresh seafood, tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), and raki enjoyed in family-run tavernas. From exploring Byzantine walls to experiencing the infectious summer festival atmosphere, Durrës offers an authentic taste of Albanian hospitality against a backdrop of sun, sea, and millennia of history.

Best time to visit Durrës

May to September offers warm, sunny weather ideal for beach activities, with July-August being peak tourist season (crowded but vibrant). May-June and September provide pleasant temperatures (20-28°C) with fewer crowds. April and October are good for cultural exploration with mild weather. Avoid November-March due to cooler temperatures and reduced tourist services. Key festivals include the Durrës Summer Festival (July-August) with concerts and cultural events, and the Durrës Wine Festival (May) celebrating local vineyards.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Partly cloudy
Temperature: 11°
Feels like: 11°
Humidity: 95%
Wind: 3 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 14-22°C, some rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Pleasant for sightseeing

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

TIA

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza

International

33 km away

OHD

Ohrid St. Paul the Apostle Airport

International

130 km away

PRN

Pristina International Airport

International

220 km away

Getting around

"Local buses and minibuses (\"furgon\") connect Durrës city with coastal villages and Tirana. Taxis are affordable—insist on using the meter or agree on fares beforehand. Popular ride-hailing apps like Bolt operate in the area. Car rentals are available but require an International Driving Permit; driving can be chaotic. Bicycles are great for coastal paths. Ferries from Durrës Port connect to Italian cities. Walking is ideal in the compact city center and along the seaside promenade."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

25 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cafes, hotels, and public areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5 (Vodafone, Telekom)

Calling code

+355

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low violent crime, but watch for pickpockets in crowds.

Night safety

7/10

Low violent crime, but watch for pickpockets in crowds.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Durrës is generally safe for tourists, with petty theft being the primary concern—secure valuables on crowded beaches and public transport. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, especially near the port. Common scams include overcharging in unofficial taxis and inflated restaurant bills—use licensed taxis and check menus for prices. The beachfront and city center are well-patrolled. Road safety requires caution due to aggressive driving. Political demonstrations are rare but should be avoided. Tourist Police (Policia Turistike) assist visitors in multiple languages."

Police

129

Ambulance

127

Fire

128

Tourist Police

+355 52 222 235

Entry and health

Health information

"Durrës has several public and private medical facilities, including Durrës Regional Hospital and private clinics like American Hospital. Travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. No mandatory vaccinations are required, but Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine vaccines are recommended. Tap water is generally not safe to drink—use bottled water. Mosquito-borne illnesses are rare, but use repellent in summer. Pharmacies (\"farmaci\") are widely available for minor ailments. For serious emergencies, medical evacuation to Tirana or abroad may be necessary."

Culture

Local customs

"Albanian hospitality is warm—expect invitations for coffee or raki. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: 5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares. Greet with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Smoking is common in public places. Family values are strong—avoid criticizing local traditions. Bargaining is acceptable in markets but not in established shops. Evening walks (\"xhiro\") along the waterfront are a cherished social ritual."

AlbanianGreekItalian

Costs and practicals

Currency

Albanian Lek (ALL) · L

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs around $5

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Very affordable compared to Western Europe. Mid-range hotels and meals are still cheap.

Timezone

Europe/Tirane +01:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

290,000

Area

766 km²

Government

Regional Council with elected prefect

ISO code

AL-02

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: ドゥラス, Δυρράχιο, דורס, دراج, დურესი, Дуррес, Дуръс, Durazzo, Дырач, Драч, Durrësi, Дурэс, Duresis, Durazo, Δυρράχιον, Dirraquio, Durrës, 都拉斯, Dıraç, Durras, Duraso, Bashkia Durrës, دراس, Општина Драч, Drač, ഡുറസ്, Dyrrhachium, Durresa, Akcehisar, Akçehisar, Croia, Cruja, Krna, Kroia, Kroja, Kroya, Kroïa, Krue, Krueja, Kruja, Kruje, Krujë, Kruya, kiruya, kru'a, kruya, krwh, krwja, krwے, kuruya, Круя, كروجا, کروه, کروے, क्रुया, ক্রুয়া, ਕ੍ਰੁਆ, ክሩያ, クルヤ

Major HubBeachHistoric CityFamily-FriendlyHikingRoman RuinsSeafood